From the outside looking in, the Amish appear to be simple people. They eschew any modern conveniences in favor of old-fashioned living. This lifestyle means no motorized vehicles, electronics, or most forms of technology developed after the 19th century. The rejection of advances in the rest of society sometimes includes ideals, viewpoints, practices, and programs developed as the rest of the world evolved. Since most Amish communities are located in the United States, they occasionally conflict with the state and federal governments.

When their traditions clash with the official laws and regulations in their jurisdiction, concessions are made on both sides. The United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) agreed in 1961 that the Amish are exempt from paying taxes to the Federal Social Security program, and was codified by a law passed in 1965. Conversely, despite their insular nature, they are still subject to the United States criminal justice system. They will cooperate with local and federal law enforcement agencies when necessary, despite their preference for using religious bodies to handle legal conflicts.